What is Intertrigo? Its all in the folds
Intertrigo is a common skin condition that happens when areas of skin rub together and trap moisture, causing redness, irritation, and sometimes infections. It usually affects skin folds, like the armpits, under the breasts, groin, or between the toes.
What Causes Intertrigo?
Intertrigo occurs in areas where skin touches skin, especially in places where it's warm and moist. This can cause irritation and make the skin more likely to develop an infection from bacteria or fungi. Some things that increase the risk of intertrigo include:
Hot or humid weather
Excessive sweating
Being overweight
Wearing tight clothing
Poor hygiene
What Does Intertrigo Look Like?
Intertrigo often appears as red, itchy, or painful patches of skin. The affected areas may feel warm or even burn. If an infection develops, you might notice a bad smell, cracks in the skin, or pus.
How is Intertrigo Treated?
Treating intertrigo starts with keeping the skin dry and reducing friction. Here are some steps you can take:
Keep the skin folds dry by using powder or drying clothes.
Wear loose-fitting clothing to reduce rubbing.
Clean the affected areas gently with mild soap and water.
Apply creams or ointments: Your doctor may recommend using an antifungal or antibacterial cream if there's an infection.
In some cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications if the infection is severe or doesn’t go away with simple treatments.
How Can You Prevent Intertrigo?
The best way to prevent intertrigo is to keep your skin dry and clean, especially in areas where your skin rubs together. Here are a few tips:
Wear breathable fabrics like cotton.
Use a soft towel to gently dry the skin after bathing.
Use powder or barrier creams to reduce moisture in skin folds.
If you think you may have intertrigo or need advice on how to prevent it, Dr. Ashley Baldree at Village Dermatology in Katy is here to help. We offer expert care to keep your skin healthy and comfortable.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit
